High Speed Two Phase 2B: Crewe To

June 2019 High Speed Two Phase 2b: Crewe to

Manchester and West Midlands to Leeds Consultation on the working draft Environmental Statement

Produced by Ipsos MORI for HS2 Ltd

18-054579-01 | For Publication | This work was carried out in accordance with the requirements of the international quality standard for Market Research, ISO 20252, and with the Ipsos MORI Terms and Conditions which can be found at http://www.ipsos-mori.com/terms.

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15.12 Noise and vibration ...... 148 15.13 Traffic and transport ...... 149 15.14 Water resources and flood risk ...... 153 16. Comments relating to Volume 2: community area LA03 Appleby Parva to ...... 154 Ashby-de-la-Zouch ...... 154 16.1 Introduction ...... 154 16.2 Overview of the area ...... 154 16.3 Agriculture, forestry and soils ...... 155 16.4 Air quality ...... 156 16.5 Community ...... 157 16.6 Ecology and biodiversity ...... 159 16.7 Health ...... 160 16.8 Historic environment ...... 161 16.9 Land quality ...... 162 16.10 Landscape and visual ...... 162 16.11 Socio-economic ...... 163 16.12 Noise and vibration ...... 164 16.13 Traffic and transport ...... 166 16.14 Water resources and flood risk ...... 169 17. Comments relating to Volume 2: community area LA04 Coleorton to Kegworth ...... 171 17.1 Introduction ...... 171 17.2 Overview of the area ...... 171 17.3 Agriculture, forestry and soils ...... 172 17.4 Air quality ...... 173 17.5 Community ...... 173 17.6 Ecology and biodiversity ...... 176 17.7 Health ...... 177 17.8 Historic environment ...... 177 17.9 Land quality ...... 178 17.10 Landscape and visual ...... 179 17.11 Socio-economic ...... 179 17.12 Noise and vibration ...... 181 17.13 Traffic and transport ...... 181 17.14 Water resources and flood risk ...... 184 18. Comments relating to Volume 2: community area LA05 Ratcliffe-on-Soar to Long Eaton ...... 186 18.1 Introduction ...... 186 18.2 Overview of the area ...... 186

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16. Comments relating to Volume 2: community area LA03 Appleby Parva to Ashby-de-la-Zouch

16.1 Introduction

This chapter summarises the comments received relating to Volume 2, community area report and map book for LA03: Appleby Parva to Ashby-de-la-Zouch. While responses from a number of respondents covered more than one community area, comments specifically relating to LA03 are reported in this chapter.

Comments were received from 152 members of the public and 28 organisations. Organisations that made comments about this community area included: Ashby-de-la-Zouch Civic Society, Ashby Civic Society, Appleby Magna Parish Council, Ashby Canal Association, Ashby-de-la-Zouch Town Council, Leicestershire County Council, North West Leicestershire District Council, Packington Parish Council, Plastic Omnium Automotive Ltd, a joint response from Staffordshire County Council and Tamworth Borough Council, and also a response from Willesley Park Golf Club. A full list of organisations that responded is included in Appendix A.

16.2 Overview of the area

The Appleby Parva to Ashby-de-la-Zouch area14 is a section of the Proposed Scheme that would be approximately 12.8km long and pass through the parishes of Appleby Magna, Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe and Acresford, Measham, Packington and Ashby-de-la-Zouch. This area lies within the local authority areas of North West Leicestershire District Council and Leicestershire County Council. The boundary between Austrey and Appleby Magna parishes forms the southern boundary of this section. The boundary between Ashby-de-la-Zouch and Coleorton parishes forms the northern boundary of this section. The Birchmoor to Austrey area (LA02) lies to the south and the Coleorton to Kegworth (LA04) area lies to the north.

The next sections of this chapter provide a summary of the comments received in relation to the environmental topic areas as covered in the volume 2 community area reports.

14 High Speed Rail (Crewe to Manchester and West Midlands to Leeds) working draft ES. Volume 2: community area report. LA03: Appleby Parva to Ashby-de-la-Zouch https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/745211/HS2_Phase_2b_WDES_Volume_2_LA03_Apple by_Parva_to_Ashby-de-la-Zouch.pdf

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Figure 16.1 below shows the number of respondents who made comments relating to each of the topic areas in volume 2 of the working draft ES.

Figure 16.1: Number of respondents who made comments about LA03

LA03: APPLEBY PARVA TO ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH

Number of respondents who made comments TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT 157 COMMUNITIES 142 SOUND, NOISE AND VIBRATION 65 SOCIO-ECONOMIC 51 HEALTH 44 ECOLOGY AND BIODIVERSITY 43 AIR QUALITY 40 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL 36 AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND SOILS 22 HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT 21 WATER RESOURCES AND FLOOD RISK 13 LAND QUALITY 9

Base: 180 respondents submitting responses related to LA03: Appleby Parva to Ashby de la Zouch

16.3 Agriculture, forestry and soils

There were 22 respondents who provided comments about agriculture, forestry and soils. This included six individuals and 16 organisations.

The main points raised by individuals about agriculture, forestry and soils included general concerns about the loss of agricultural land to make way for construction of HS2.

There were nine organisations that expressed concerns about how HS2 would have consequences for agriculture, forestry and soils. Comments included concern about disruption to agricultural land due to the construction of HS2 (2).

“Our parish is predominantly rural, and as a result of this one of our main concerns is the change in land use that will result from the construction and operation of HS2 within the parish.” Apply Magna Parish Council

Four organisations also commented on proposed mitigation measures for land loss, and/or suggested additional mitigation measures felt to be needed to off-set the potential impact of HS2 on agriculture,

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forestry and soils. For example, North West Leicestershire District Council stated that there are substantial areas of woodland in the Measham area, and while there would be a net gain of trees in the area overall, their slow growth would mean that it would take many years to recover. The Council therefore asked that HS2 Ltd consider measures to facilitate replacement of trees.

“The Council feel that the loss of trees in Willesley Wood is particularly severe and would ask HS2 Ltd to consider making part of this very deep cutting into a cut and cover tunnel to facilitate the replacement of trees lost… in Measham.”

North West Leicestershire District Council

16.4 Air quality

Overall, 40 respondents made comments about local air quality issues. This included 27 individuals and 13 organisations.

Of the individuals who made comments about air quality in this area, the most frequently cited comments were concerns about air quality in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (5) and Packington (4). Nine individuals had specific concerns about the potential impact on local air quality during construction of HS2, highlighting concerns about the potential impacts on the communities of Packington (3), and Appleby Magna (1). A small number of individuals were also concerned about the potential impact of HGVs on air quality, and called for mitigation measures to be put in place.

Of the organisations that made comments about air quality, comments received included concerns about air quality in Measham (2) and in Packington (2). Ten organisations also made comments specifically about the effect HS2 would have on air quality during the construction phase. Comments received on this point included how Measham and Packington would be affected, but also Oakthorpe, Ashby-de-la- Zouch, and at Rectory Lane.

“We do have concerns about dust contamination of the Rectory Lane allotments and effects on Georgina’s Wood and would like to see HS2’s plans to address problems if they arise.” Apply Magna Parish Council

Six organisations made comments about mitigation measures to offset the effects of HS2 in relation to air quality and air pollution in the local area.

“The Council understand that it is easy for the general public to misinterpret the standards by which air quality is measured, and as a result of this have received many comments which are best placed in other sections of this response. The Council will expect HS2’s contractors to carry out air monitoring where appropriate and cascade this information to Parish level.” North West Leicestershire District Council

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16.5 Community

In total, 142 respondents made comments about how the Proposed Scheme might affect local communities. This included 115 individuals and 27 organisations.

The most frequently cited comments from individuals in relation to the potential impact of HS2 on local communities included:

▪ Concerns about the environmental impact on local communities were (45 individuals). Comments received included general concerns about environmental impact of HS2 (16), as well as more specific impacts on Ashby-de-la-Zouch (14), Packington (13), Oakthorpe (4), and Measham (3).

▪ Twenty four individuals raised concerns about the potential impact of HS2 on public spaces and rights of way, thus impacting upon local communities. General concerns were about how open spaces would be affected (10), as well about specific areas in Packington (4) and in Ashby-de-la- Zouch (3).

▪ Fifty one individuals had concerns about disruption to local communities during the construction period. This included in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (22), Packington and New Packington (11). There were also 17 comments citing concerns about the potential impact of HS2 on unspecified communities in this community area.

▪ There were 21 individuals who were concerned about the potential impact of the Proposed Scheme on residential properties. Comments received included general concerns (11), as well as concerns about property prices in specific settlements including Ashby-de-la-Zouch (4), Packington (2) and Oakthorpe (1).

▪ There were also 21 individuals who were concerned about the potential impact of the Proposed Scheme on community facilities. This included comments about possible impact of schools in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (12), Packington (8), and on Ivanhoe College (1). Some individuals were also concerned about impacts on other community facilities, such as health facilities in Ashby-de-la- Zouch (2), and Packington (1).

“As a resident living close to the Ashby Road Packington I wish to raise my concern regarding the closure of both the main road bridges over the A42 which link Ashby to Packington..I believe that they will be closed for over a year without any temporary or alternative structure. Both of these routes are used on a continuous basis..children walk to secondary school from Packington...there is no alternative route without involving miles of extra walking.” Member of the public

▪ Six individuals also raised concerned about the effect of HS2 on recreation and leisure facilities, including those in Packington (2), and Appleby Magna (2).

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▪ Other comments received included concern about how young people (12), and also elderly, disabled and vulnerable residents (8) would be affected.

“Proposal to close Ashby road bridge for vehicles for 19 months. This is the main route into Ashby from the village, used by anybody and everybody coming and going to Ashby.” Member of the public

Seventeen individuals cited mitigation measures believed necessary to lessen the potential impact of the Proposed Scheme upon local communities. . Comments provided included requests for financial compensation (6), and home purchase schemes for those who might lose their home (2).

Of the 27 organisations that provided comments about the potential impact of the Proposed Scheme, most made comments about how local people and local communities could be affected.

The most frequently made comments from organisations included:

▪ Concern that open space and Public Rights of Way would be impacted, with consequences for local people and local communities. Among comments received, there were six comments about how the greenbelt and countryside would be affected, and five comments about how footpaths and Public Rights of Way would be affected.

▪ Sixteen organisations had concerns that local community facilities would be affected. Comments included concerns about schools in Packington (5) in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (4) Oakthorpe (2), and Appleby Magna (2). Other facilities expected to be affected included local car parks (2), Measham Medical Centre (2), and the health centre in Packington (1).

“Your proposal to construct three balancing ponds between the railway and the village brings construction, and its attendant noise and dust, closer to the school.”

Packington Church of England Primary School

▪ Sixteen organisations were also concerned about how local towns and villages could be affected. This included Measham and also Ashby-de-la-Zouch (5 comments each), as well as Oakthorpe (3), Packington (2), Appleby Magna (2), and Willesley (2).

▪ Twelve organisations provided comments about how they felt that local leisure and recreational facilities could be affected. As with community impacts, a number of towns and villages were mentioned, including Measham, Packington and Appleby Magna where organisations believed that recreational and leisure facilities or activities could be affected. Of specific examples given, Willesley Golf Club was concerned about how the Proposed Scheme could affect the golf course, with consequences in journey times, particularly for members who live to the south and south west of the course. It stated that it would welcome any opportunity to meet with HS2 Ltd to discuss further. Some concerns were also raised about how allotments could be affected.

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“The allotment gardens are a vital village asset and very important to the mental and physical health of residents of the village. The current environmental statement plays 'lip service' to these aspects and, in our opinion, they are being massively undervalued when compared to the more material/physical impacts of the route.”

Appleby Magna Allotment Society (AMAS)

▪ Specific concerns were also raised about how local residents’ homes and properties would be affected in local towns and villages, including Measham (4), and in Willesley Woodside (2).

▪ There were also a number of other concerns about how HS2 would affect local communities. Comments received included concern about how HS2 would segregate local communities (3), and that workers’ compounds would impact local people (2).

Seventeen organisation suggested mitigation measures to reduce the perceived impact of HS2 on local people and upon local communities. A number of measures were cited as being necessary to restrict noise and to have a curfew on night time work.

“In conclusion we, the Governors, believe that your Draft Environmental Statement does not take proper account of the wellbeing of our school or the pupils in our charge.”

Packington Church of England Primary School

“Mitigation gets little attention in the draft WDES… moving the route the 200m proposed by Route 4 will minimise the impact on the Dysons Close area, have much less impact on Plastic Omnium, and if the proposed New Street crossing is in a green tunnel it would eliminate noise issues for both Oakthorpe and that part of Measham and reduce substantially the impact on the rest of Measham…” Ashby Canal Trust

16.6 Ecology and biodiversity

In total, 43 respondents made comments about ecology and biodiversity. This included 21 individuals and 22 organisations.

Seven individuals raised concerns about the potential impact of the Proposed Scheme on ecology, biodiversity and habitats, and three individuals raised concerns about the potential impact of HS2 on ancient woodlands. Six individuals raised concerns about impact on wildlife, and a small number of individuals had concerns about impacts in specific places, including in Packington (2).

“HS2 is being developed through the National Forest, home to a number of species of flora and fauna with very little consideration being provided to ensure safeguarding that these will not be affected either by direct construction of the route or by secondary effects such as vehicles having to be diverted.” Member of the public

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Eleven individuals suggested a range of mitigation measures to lessen the perceived impact of the Proposed Scheme on biodiversity and local ecosystems.

A range of comments were received from organisations, and these included concerns about how ancient woodlands would be affected (6), as well as fields, trees and hedgerows generally (9). Some specific areas were mentioned including Fiveways Wood (3), as well as ecosystems in Willesley (2) and habitats at or near Ashby-de-la-Zouch (3), Measham (2), and along the A42 (2). Ten organisations also commented about how HS2 would affect wildlife, with five organisations providing comments about impacts at designated sites, including on the River Mease, or areas unspecified.

Twenty organisations commented on mitigation measures to reduce the potential impact of HS2 on ecology and biodiversity. Comments received included tree planting (7), and that HS2 should seek to achieve a net gain in biodiversity (3). However, some of the organisations made comments that HS2 would negatively impact ecology, biodiversity and local habitats, with losses being impossible to be replace (5).

“An assessment of the landscape through community area LA03 acknowledges that a noticeably different character has been created within the National Forest through substantial areas of woodland planting. The NFC considers that this character should be reinforced and enhanced through a greater emphasis on woodland creation within the landscaping plans across the National Forest.” The National Forest Company

“We are very concerned by the statement in LA03 7.4.10 ’In the absence of field survey information, it has been assumed that this grassland lost outside designated areas is not unimproved’. It is very difficult to identify unimproved grassland without a field survey and this is locally a priority habitat.” Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust

16.7 Health

There were 44 respondents who made comments related to health aspects. This included 30 individuals and 14 organisations.

The most frequently made comments from individuals in relation to the perceived impact of the Proposed Scheme on health, quality of life and wellbeing included:

▪ General concerns regarding people’s health, quality of life and wellbeing (16). There were also comments identifying specific communities where people’s health would be affected, including Packington (6), Oakthorpe (2), and Ashby-de-la-Zouch (2).

“There would be health hazards from the noise and dust etc to all residents and especially to the children in the school, which could increase illness…and reduce performance.”

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Member of the public

▪ Some individuals were also concerned about the potential impact of HS2 on mental health generally (9), or that the proposed development of the railway would be stressful (3), worrying (2), or depressing (2).

“The mental stress factor should also be taken into consideration.”

Member of the public

▪ A small number of individuals (4) also commented about health and safety issues associated with construction of HS2.

The most frequently cited comments from organisations in relation to the potential impact of HS2 on health, quality of life and wellbeing included:

▪ That HS2 would affect wellbeing and quality of life, including sleep (8), as well as quality of life in general (4). Specific communities mentioned where HS2 might impact people’s health included Packington and also Measham (4 comments each), Ashby-de-la-Zouch (3), and Oakthorpe (2).

“Measham’s expected noise levels will exceed both the daytime and night-time WHO guideline recommendations, producing damage to the health of around 1000 people.”

Ashby Canal Association

▪ Five organisations thought that HS2 would affect people’s mental health, or that it would cause stress (3). There were also single comments about it being frustrating, upsetting, or making people feel anxious.

▪ Two organisations cited issues relating to health and safety aspects.

In terms of mitigation measures, Appleby Magna Allotment Society (AMAS) suggested that it would be good to see a more thorough or detailed assessment of the potential impact of the proposed scheme on health and lifestyle, and that the allotments in the village are a vital village asset and very important to the mental and physical health of residents. It suggested that the current environmental statement was underplaying the importance of such assets relative to material and physical impacts of the route.

16.8 Historic environment

Overall, 21 respondents made comments about impacts on the local historic environment and upon cultural facilities. This included seven individuals and 14 organisations.

Of the individuals who made comments about impact on the historic environment and/or cultural facilities, this mostly included general concerns about negative impacts (6), although a small number of individuals were concerned about specific impacts in Appleby Magna.

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“I have only just discovered that HS2 Ltd has plans to demolish the Grade 2 listed Old Rectory as part of its construction plans…I am led to believe…that there are plans afoot to demolish it. I am outraged by this proposal since this property has always been a significant part of the village…” Member of the public

In terms of comments received from organisations, these included how HS2 could impact designated assets (3), with specific sites mentioned including The Old Rectory on Rectory Lane in Appleby Magna (2) and historic buildings in Packington (2).

“We are extremely concerned that the Old Rectory and its Coach House and Stables are scheduled for demolition in the Draft Environmental Statement. By HS2’s own assessment “the loss of the listed buildings would be a high adverse impact resulting in a major adverse effect” (para 9.4.10). In these circumstances we are astonished that no justification is given for the demolition.” Appleby Magna Parish Council

16.9 Land quality

There were nine respondents who made comments about land quality. This included one individuals and eight organisations. The individual made comments about the unsuitability of local land for the development of HS2.

Organisations raised a number issues, particularly about the location of old quarry sites potentially impacted by the Proposed Scheme, including a number along the A42 (3), near Oakthorpe (2), near Ashby-de-la-Zouch (1) or Donisthorpe (1). Three organisations also made mention of contaminated land, and one raised concerns about proximity of the Proposed Scheme to local coal seams, with consequences for local residents.

“Oakthorpe residents have raised concerns about the proximity of the realigned A42 to local coal seams. As discussed in section 6.10 above, underground fires have had a severe impact on the community and has changed the character of the village. In addition to the underground fires, there have been many incidents of subsidence and there are fears that land disturbances for the road realignment works could trigger other problems…The Council require assurances on behalf of the village that detailed surveys would be taken on the land to the east of the village where road works will be located.” Leicestershire County Council

16.10 Landscape and visual

In total, 36 respondents commented on the potential impact of the Proposed Scheme on the landscape and on visual receptors in this community area. This included 22 individuals and 14 organisations.

Of the individuals who made comments about landscape and visual impacts, comments included that HS2 could be visually intrusive in Packington (9), at Gilwiskaw Brook (4), in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (2), at

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Oakthorpe (2), or that it would have negative visual impact generally (5). Four individuals suggested mitigation measures to reduce the potential impact of the Proposed Scheme on the visual landscape.

“Further thought is required for the large Viaduct over the Gilwiskaw as an 8m high concrete construction is totally unacceptable and will damage the lovely views our village has. An alternative solution is required.” Member of the public

Comments from organisations included the view that the Proposed Scheme could be visually intrusive in Packington (3), Measham (2), Oakthorpe (2), and generally (2).

Eight organisations suggested mitigation measures to reduce negative visual impacts and intrusion of HS2. Comments received included that a visual assessment would be required, and that landscape features should be designed or implemented to help reduce visual impact.

16.11 Socio-economic

There were 51 respondents who made comments about socio-economic aspects of the Proposed Scheme. This included 33 individuals and 18 organisations.

The most frequently made comments from individuals in relation to socio-economic aspects of HS2 included:

▪ General concerns about how local businesses would be affected (8), as well as in settlements including Ashby-de-la-Zouch (7), Packington (2), and Measham, Coalville and Oakthorpe (one comment each).

“I wish to register a protest concerning the totally unsuitable diversion route via Corkscrew Lane…the town centre businesses will suffer as the parking situation at present is inadequate and with more traffic it will be totally grid lock.” Member of the public

▪ Eight individuals expressed concerned that the local economy and local people would be affected financially by HS2. Comments included that local people would face additional expenses or be out of pocket (3), that the local economy in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (3) or generally would suffer (2), and that there would be an impact on jobs and employment (1).

▪ A small number of individuals (3) were concerned about the potential impact of HS2 on businesses during the construction phase.

Two individuals requested that mitigation measures be put in place to off-set socio-economic impacts associated with HS2.

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The most frequently made comments from organisations in relation to socio-economic aspects of HS2 included:

▪ General concerns about how local businesses might be affected (3), as well as businesses in specific settlements including Measham (4), and Ashby-de-la-Zouch (4).

▪ Some of the organisations were particularly concerned about the potential impact on businesses during the construction phase of HS2, particularly in Measham (4), but also in Appleby Magna, with specific businesses mentioned including Appleby Park Hotel, Appleby Magna Service Area, and also the Old Rectory on Rectory Lane.

▪ Some of the organisations were also concerned about how the Proposed Scheme could affect employment and jobs, as well as how the local economy as a whole might be affected.

“170 jobs will be lost in the Appleby to Ashby section of the route. This is as result of impact on 26 business units. Of these 26, 19 are in Measham. This implies that more jobs will be lost in Measham Central Ward than in the whole of NWL put together.”

Ashby Canal Association

Eight organisations suggested mitigation measures to reduce impact on HS2 upon local businesses and the local economy in the community area. For example, Plastic Omnium Automotive Ltd suggested an alternative route which, in its opinion, would have fewer negative consequences for businesses and the local community as well.

“Plastic Omnium’s technical consultants have identified a possible new alignment which runs east of Measham, and further east from the 2016 alignment that was put out to consultation. This alignment is shown on the attached plan. This minimises the impact on settlements and individual properties and overcomes the issues which have been identified in the draft ES as problematic in relation to the 2016 alignment. The vertical and horizontal alignments also preserve HS2’s 400kpm design standards (but see below in respect of lines speeds). Plastic Omnium requests that HS2 now undertakes a detailed assessment of this further alternative alignment before finalising the ES.”

Plastic Omnium Automotive Ltd

16.12 Noise and vibration

Overall, 65 respondents made comments about noise and vibration issues in the community area. This included 46 individuals and 19 organisations.

The most frequently made comments from individuals in relation to noise and vibration included general concerns about the potential impact of HS2 in terms of noise (19), as well as concerns about noise in Packington (14), Ashby-de-la-Zouch (7), and Oakthorpe (2). Some individuals were worried about the effect of noise during the construction phase of HS2 throughout the area, and including in Appleby

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Magna (2). There were also come concerns raised about noise when HS2 becomes operational and this included some general comments (4), as well as impacts in settlements including Ashby-de-la-Zouch (3), and Appleby Magna (1).

“I am concerned about the impact that the construction of HS2 will have on the village of Oakthorpe. Noise map SV-01-357 is not fit for purpose as it shows untested noise levels from the centre of the track after HS2 commissioned. No account has been taken into noise distribution during construction.” Member of the public

“Closing the Leicester road bridge between Ashby-de-la-Zouch and Packington for 1 year and 5 months will have a considerable effect on the local community…I am also greatly concerned about the noise pollution caused by ongoing works for this period of time.” Member of the public

There were 21 individuals who suggested mitigation measures to reduce the effect of noise from HS2 during either the construction and/or operational phase. Suggestions included general comments (10), as well as more specific measures, including the introduction of sound barriers (5), and sound proofing in properties in Packington and Ashby-de-la-Zouch.

“Please include an Environmental Noise Statement for the proposed operations.”

Member of the public

“I would like to see more evidence of planting to help with limiting operational noise during the operational phase of the route.” Member of the public

Of the organisations that provided comments about noise and vibration issues, the most frequently made comments were concerns about noise in general (6), or specifically about the perceived impact of noise on local communities including Packington (5), Measham (4), and New Packington (2).

Eleven organisations made comments about noise and vibration during the construction of the railway, with such comments made including concerns about noise from HGVs (3), or at night (2), and in settlements including Oakthorpe (2), Measham (1), Packington (1), and Willesley (1).

Eight of the organisations also provided comments about impact of noise on local people, and comments received included how residents in various places, including Measham (2) and near the A42 (2), would be affected.

Thirteen organisations suggested mitigation measures to counteract the perceived impact of HS2 in terms of noise and vibration. Measures included requirements for improved insulation (2 comments) and that the proposed noise barriers would not be sufficient (3).

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Specific requests included from Oakthorpe Village Action Group which believed that a material stockpile situated at Tree Tops Farm, Oakthorpe, would bring a number of issues including poor air quality, but also, in its view, an unreasonable increase in noise pollution by construction traffic depositing and collecting materials due to construction works. It requested that the stockpile be relocated. Ashby Canal Association asked for higher sound barriers, compulsory purchase of the most impacted properties, use of alternative routes, and even the abandoning of the Proposed Scheme altogether.

“Use of an alternative route such as route 4 with a green tunnel to protect Oakthorpe. This would move the line 200m to the east and mitigate virtually all the noise effects and cut the demolitions in the Measham/Oakthorpe area to about 6.”

Ashby Canal Association

16.13 Traffic and transport

There were 157 respondents who made comments about local traffic and transport issues. This included 132 individuals and 25 organisations.

The most frequently made comments from individuals in relation to local traffic and transport issues were:

▪ Impacts on traffic and transport locally due to construction traffic, including in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (36), at Corkscrew Lane (17), on Leicester Road (10), and on the A42 (10), and also on the A511 (9), and in Packington (8).

▪ Changes to roads, including closures and diversions, attracted a significant number of comments from 92 individuals. This included comments about road closures on Leicester Road (24), Ashby Road (16), in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (13), at Corkscrew Lane (13), in Packington (7), on the A42 (6), or the A511 (3), at Windermere Avenue (2), and generally (10).

“One of the major issues is the closure of Ashby Road, Packington which HS2 are proposing to close for 19 months…this will dramatically impact on the daily lives of everyone who lives in the village…” Member of the public

▪ Forty individuals made comments about what they perceived to be the effect of construction compounds upon traffic and transport locally. Comments included concerns about increased journey times for local traffic in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (21), in Measham (3), New Packington (3), on Corkscrew Lane (2), on the A511 (2), in Packington (2), and in general (8).

▪ Some 35 individuals made comments about road safety issues, which included safety concerns on Corkscrew Lane (12), in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (9), Packington (9), at Coleorton Hall Estate (2), and generally (9).

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“…Coleorton Hall Estate which is immediately adjacent to the start of the proposed road realignment…residents have no difficulty in recognising the dangers involved in using the existing road (A512). It is a road that invites fast speeds of travel…and an alignment that makes overtaking at any point extremely precarious.” Member of the public

▪ Eighteen individuals made comments about public transport. Comments included that existing rail infrastructure should be upgraded (4), without specifying further. But there were also some specific settlements cited, including that existing rail infrastructure should be upgraded in Ashby-de-la- Zouch (4).

▪ Nineteen individuals made comments about non-motorised road users including cyclists and pedestrians. The main comments were focused on road safety for cyclists and pedestrians (13).

▪ Seven individuals also raised concerns about how roads would be damaged by construction traffic, and this included four comments about Corkscrew Lane, and single comments about impacts in Coleorton Lane and also in Packington.

There were 23 individuals who provided comments about mitigation measures to reduce the potential impact on local traffic and transport.

“Traffic should not use our village roads (in Packington). The noise, pollution, and danger to pedestrians and school traffic is unthinkable – propose a haul road along the route line to avoid/minimise the construction traffic through the village.”

Member of the public

“You need to properly assess the impact that construction traffic would have on Packington, and devise alternatives from junctions 12 & 13 of A42. You need to build a temporary crossing alongside your new bridge to maintain the Ashby Road route in use.” Member of the public

“As a parent with school age children I am concerned about how the children will walk to school from Packington to Ashby if the Ashby-Road bridge is to be closed? …we strongly request that a pedestrian footpath is provided during construction of HS2 so that the children can get to their secondary school safely.” Member of the public

The most frequently made comments from organisations in relation to local traffic and transport issues were:

▪ Eighteen organisations were concerned about road closures and/or traffic diversions. Comments received included concerns about effects in Ashby-de-la-Zouch (5), on Measham Road (4), on Ashby Road (4), the A511 (3), the B4116 (3), at Junction 11 on the M42 (3), and on Burton Road (2). Of specific examples given, Appleby Magna Parish Council stated that it had a major concern about

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levels of disruption to the roads leading into and out of Appleby village, and to the functioning of Junction 11 on the M42. Ashby Civic Society said it was particularly concerned about the effect of road closures around Ashby-de-la-Zouch during the construction phase of HS2.

“It would appear that many roads to the East of our town will be closed for years thus cutting us off from travelling to the major towns to the East of us.” Ashby Civic Society

▪ Seventeen organisations were concerned about the potential impact on the local transport network during construction of HS2. As well as some general comments about impact on unspecified locations, there were also more specific locations mentioned including on the A42 (3), in Ashby-de- la-Zouch (3), Measham (2), at Junction 11 on the M42 (2), and in Oakthorpe (2).

▪ Eleven organisations raised concerns about road safety, with comments received including road safety issues in Packington (3). A number of areas were also mentioned, attracting one or two comments only, including road safety at Rectory Lane, on the B4116, and on Measham Road.

▪ Perceived impact of construction compounds also attracted comments from 11 organisations, including concerns about increased journey times in Measham (3), in Appleby Magna (2), in Oakthorpe (2), and in New Packington (2). Four organisations also raised concerns about how local roads, in their opinion, might be damaged by construction traffic related to HS2.

▪ Eleven organisations also provided comments about local public transport, including how bus services and school bus services might be affected (3), as well as public transport services in locations including Ashby-de-la-Zouch (2), and Packington (2).

▪ There were concerns about HGVs and how these would impact the road network (3), as well as how they would block, restrict, or hold up traffic in villages and on country lanes (3). Specific locations mentioned included on Corkscrew Lane (3), Measham Road (2), on Burton Road (2), and in Packington (2).

▪ Eight organisations made comments specifically focussed on non-motorised users of the local transport network. This included a suggestion to ensure road safety for horse riders (2), and for pedestrians and cyclists in Asby-de-la-Zouch (2).

Seventeen organisations suggested mitigation measures, or commented on proposed mitigation measures. Comments and suggestions included that simultaneous road closures should be avoided (5), that footpaths and cycle paths should be upgraded or improved (3), and that more detailed consideration of mitigation measures was required (2).

“The Council would also like to bring attention to the use of the A444 as a major route to Twycross Zoo and Conkers. This is particularly important at weekends, bank holidays and school holidays; this must be borne in mind when planning temporary closures.”

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Leicestershire County Council

Some of those that responded provided very detailed comments and suggestions about local roads, and this included a response from Leicestershire & Rutland Bridleways Association and the British Horse Society which has been passed to HS2 Ltd for consideration. Others, including Ashby Civic Society, asked for more information or more details about the proposals and how local areas might be affected or impacted by the proposed Scheme.

“In order to find out if our town will be cut off for very long periods would you be able to send a member of staff to Ashby to go through the planned construction and its effect on our town?” Ashby Civic Society

16.14 Water resources and flood risk

There were 13 respondents who made comments about local water resources and flood risk. This included four individuals and nine organisations. Comments from individuals included a comment about a perceived need for flood defences in Appleby Magna, and also a query about drainage at Appleby Parva, and a request for a flooding assessment in Packington village.

“The Appleby Parva culvert shows drainage channels from both sides of the track in both directions, but there is no indication of draining provision for water collecting at this point.” Member of the public

“Also flood assessments for Packington village need to be completed to decide if flooding will be even worse in the village.” Member of the public

Organisations made a number of comments about water resources, including about flood risk and a need for flood defences in Measham (2), and on the River Mease (2). Single comments were also received about water resources during construction of HS2, including drainage at Rectory Lane, and about water quality at Oakthorpe.

Of specific organisations that made comments about water resources and flood risk:

▪ Appleby Magna Parish Council stated that Appleby was below the level of the surrounding countryside and that its centre was periodically subject to flooding. The Council was concerned about how in its opinion there would be local increase in run-off during construction of HS2. It stated that there should be detailed consideration of this issue, as well as run-off from temporary compounds.

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▪ Appleby Magna Allotment Society (AMAS) raised a number of concerns, and this included how construction works might impact drainage in the allotment gardens area in Appleby. It was worried that water could be cut off completely during the construction phase, resulting in lost crops.

▪ Leicestershire County Council stated that it expected that works would not worsen any flooding and that the proposed scheme would work towards improvements. With reference to the settlements of Measham, Packington and New Packington within the local area, the Council wished to bring a number of points to the attention of HS2 Ltd. For example, in relation to Measham, the Council stated that flooding of the River Mease can be an issue.

“Flooding can be an issue on the south side of the Westminster Industrial Estate, River Way and Bird’s Hill bridge, which is low and can become blocked by debris when the river is in spate. Flooding can also be exacerbated by field run off; the village slopes down from Tamworth Road to the river. These locations are all near to the construction zone and HS2 Ltd must ensure that all appropriate survey work is undertaken to prevent adverse effects in the floodplain area.” Leicestershire County Council

▪ Leicestershire County Council was also concerned about the potential impact of flooding of the Gilwiskaw Brook in Packington, and it requested discussions with HS2 Ltd on suitable drainage for a site proposed to be used as a materials stockpile in New Packington.